My first born turned 8 years old recently. That is sort of a special age in our church. It is the age in which they can choose to be baptized and become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (aka – Mormon).
The day she was baptized was one of the most precious days I’ve experienced as a mother. I’ll never forget it.
I’ve been anticipating this age, not only for the experience and milestone it represents, but also because I’ve been dreaming up the dress I would make her for a long time.
Let me tell you a little bit about this dress.
My starting point pattern was the same pattern I used here for this dress, a pattern by Dana from Made. The bodice has such great shape and a sweet little back closure, I knew it would be perfect for this dress I had envisioned in my head.
I made some changes with the pattern after that. I opted for a empire waist length, fuller cap sleeves, and long gathered skirt.
The fabric consists of simple quilters cotton white fabric, and over-layed with some beautiful soft lace, both bought at Joann’s.
I added loops to the sides to hold a ribbon/sash, which can be changed out for any look. I can’t wait to tie a red silk ribbon around her for Christmas!
I also added some lace trim to the neckline, which is a nice feminine touch.
She is so happy with her dress.
And that makes me happy.
It hangs as decoration (when not in use) on her blue wardrobe, which you can see here.
But she looks so angelic when she wears this dress.
Now, let me tell you a little bit about the photo shoot we had together.
I haven’t had this much fun behind my camera for a long time.
She was such a trooper! She let me play for over an hour and didn’t whine once.
Something I was NOT prepared for!
We had tried at a different time to get some pictures, but it was cold out and her sweet personality was hibernating.
I was thrilled when it decided to warm up one beautiful autumn week, and I jumped at the chance. She was more than willing when I told her a picnic in the canyon was promised after mommy had her fun.
So while daddy explored with the other 3 kids, her and I walked around from spot to spot trying all sorts of things.
We are lucky enough to have a beautiful canyon just 10 minutes from our house. And the light that night was just magical.
You’ve probably noticed by now, that I love to play with back-lighting.
Even though sometimes the image doesn’t come across super sharp when I let that much light in, I still love the dreamy look it gives the pictures. I don’t know if I should blame my cheap end camera on that, or my skills. Probably my skills.
I brought a few props along with me, and I am so glad I did.
The umbrella came from a thrift store for $2. I snagged it because it was white (my favorite color) and because of the interesting lines.
She loved having something to pose with.
But my favorite images are these ones on the gravel road.
A car drove by and I noticed all the dust it kicked up, along with the light.
So I asked her to dance in the street. She happily obliged.
I also posed her with her new set of scriptures which she got when she turned 8.
We had such a blast together taking these pictures. I think the key was letting her know how much fun I was having, and encouraging her to just have fun with me.
Now, let me tell you a little about my girl.
Because, without her sweetness – the dress and the pictures wouldn’t mean a thing to me.
This little girls of mine – she has such a tender heart. It seems as though her biggest desire is to please others and always do what it right.
She adds such a happy energy to our home. She is as smart as a whip (that comes from daddy), and creativity just bursts at her fingers (I like to think that comes from me).
However, the light in her eyes (which comes from her Savior), is what fills my days with comfort and joy. She so easily forgives my weaknesses and loves me still. She is so patient with me as I explain to her often – that with her – I am learning how to be a mother. She is a shining example to every one of us.
She is as close to perfect, as I can ever hope to be.
Even when she is silly 😉
Thanks for sticking around for all the pictures!!
Holy cow, girlfriend! All of your pictures are amazing!! So, I'm thinking we should exchange photography tips for blog tips. 🙂 For real!!
Just love the last picture, so cute! And I love how you placed the scriptures.
I love this Cami!
She is so beautiful jinside and out, ust like her momma! You did such a good job on the dress and the photos! Miss you guys!